The Harford Fairgrounds celebrated the grand opening of its brand-new playground on Friday, July 18. The playground is located in the open grassy area near the hog barn.
Midstates Recreation, a playground equipment supplier based in Pataskala, generously donated the equipment and covered all expenses related to its installation—including employee labor, excavation, and concrete work.
Blake Hobson, owner of Midstates Recreation, approached the Senior Fair Board with the offer, and construction began in the spring. Not long after, the playground was completed. The new installation features the latest in playground design, making it a high-tech addition to the fairgrounds.
One of the standout features is the flooring—a pour-in-place rubber soft surface that feels like a mattress and is completely waterproof. It’s the highest quality play surface currently available.
“This is a great thing for our community and a great partnership with Midstates Recreation,” said Kody McInturff, a member of the Harford Fair Senior Fair Board. “They have made our fair much more unique.” McInturff also emphasized that the fairgrounds are open year-round, and families are welcome to enjoy the playground anytime—not just during fair week.
Meanwhile, preparations for the upcoming fair are in full swing. There’s “lots of rolling up your sleeves and getting tasks done, such as exhibitor entries, grounds cleanup and preparation, and coordinating with volunteers. Lots of pieces of the puzzle that need to be fixed every year,” said McInturff.
This year’s Harford Fair will run from August 3–9. Daily admission is $10, or $9.50 if purchased online. Children under eight are admitted free. Veterans and seniors will be honored on the first Monday of the fair, with $5 off admission.
